Enema is not a "long-term partner"

Enemas look like a "savior" for constipation patients! Just apply and squeeze, and the problem is solved. Although this little gadget is magical, it can also be a "double-edged sword".

The main ingredients of enema are glycerin or sorbitol, and its principle of promoting defecation is mainly based on the following points:

1. Osmotic effect: Glycerin and sorbitol have high concentrations, which can increase the osmotic pressure in the intestines, attracting more water into the intestines, thereby softening the stool and making it easier to excrete.

2. Lubricating effect: Glycerin itself has good lubricity, which can reduce the friction between feces and the intestinal wall, allowing feces to pass through the intestine smoothly.

3. Stimulate the intestinal wall: The high concentration of ingredients in the enema can also stimulate the intestinal wall, causing increased intestinal peristalsis and accelerating the defecation process.

Although enema has a significant effect on relieving constipation in the short term, long-term use may cause a series of health problems:

1. Dependence: Long-term use of enema will inhibit the natural defecation reflex, reduce the sensitivity of the rectum to feces, and lead to a weakening of the ability to defecate autonomously. Over time, the patient may only be able to defecate when using enema, forming a vicious cycle.

2. Habitual constipation: The glycerin in the enema has strong water absorption. Long-term use will cause dryness of the intestinal wall, which will aggravate the symptoms of constipation. Dryness and lack of water in the intestinal wall may cause mucosal damage and bleeding after friction with feces.

3. Damage to anal mucosa: The top of the enema is relatively hard. Repeated insertion into the anus may cause continuous irritation to the skin around the anus, causing discomfort around the anus, such as itching, rash, etc. At the same time, it may also damage the rectal mucosa, leading to anal bleeding and infection. In severe cases, there may even be heavy bleeding and acute anal abscess formation, which requires surgical treatment.

4. Electrolyte imbalance: Long-term use of enema may lead to a large loss of nutrients in the body, causing electrolyte imbalance and adversely affecting physical health.

5. Masking potential intestinal problems: Blind use of medication will mask potential intestinal diseases or intestinal obstruction and delay treatment.

Enema is like a "temporary rescuer" rather than a "long-term partner". Here are some suggestions for you to use enema correctly and avoid "risks":

1. Short-term emergency: Use enema only when defecation is urgently needed or there is stool obstruction.

2. Improve your lifestyle habits: eat more foods rich in dietary fiber, drink plenty of water, and exercise appropriately to get your intestines moving.

3. See a doctor: If constipation persists or worsens, see a doctor immediately! They will give you more professional advice and treatment options.

□ Jiang Rongrong, head nurse of the Anorectal Urology Department of Wenzhou Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine